Tunisian exports have resumed an upward trajectory in 2025, recording a 1.5% increase in value through the end of November compared to the same period last year. The total export value reached 9.57 billion dinars, a performance largely attributed to gains in the final quarter, despite volatility in olive oil export revenues.
Authorities continue efforts to boost export activity by tackling bureaucratic hurdles and enhancing digitalization. The stated national objective is to position Tunisia as a significant regional export platform, capable of transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and prosperity. This forms part of a broader state strategy to treat exports as a national priority—not only to support foreign currency reserves but also as a strategic tool to reduce the trade deficit and enhance the global competitiveness of Tunisian products.
According to indicators from the Export Promotion Center (CEPEX), Tunisia’s export potential stands at approximately $23 billion. However, around $11.25 billion, or nearly half of this capacity, remains untapped. This gap presents a major challenge for all stakeholders in the export ecosystem, including the network of commercial representatives abroad, to redouble efforts in exploring new market opportunities and strengthening the placement of Tunisian products globally.
Finance Law 2026: A Strategic Shift in National Export Policy
The 2026 Finance Law marks a pivotal change in the state’s approach to the export sector, shifting focus from traditional tax incentives to addressing the structural and procedural obstacles that have hindered the flow of investments and goods abroad.
A key new measure is Article 74, which simplifies the process for proving the repatriation of export revenues. Previously, exporters faced difficulties in providing evidence of funds returning from abroad. The new law now accepts bank account statements as sufficient official proof of receiving export payments within legal deadlines, eliminating the need for a bank clearance certificate. This reduces administrative pressure on companies and accelerates their financial cycles.
Recognizing that export recovery requires supporting major economic engines, the state included Article 40, providing exceptional measures for the Gafsa Phosphates Company. These include exemptions from customs duties and value-added tax (VAT) on imports of necessary production equipment and supplies. The company also benefits from a suspension of VAT on essential local acquisitions, aiming to restore Tunisia’s global standing in the phosphate market—a move expected to positively impact the trade balance.
Support for Productive Sectors to Boost Competitiveness
The Finance Law also introduces a package of measures to support the agricultural sector and food industries. Notable articles include:
- Article 27: Creation of seasonal loans with favorable terms for small-scale farmers.
- Article 29: Exemption of olive oil canning inputs from various duties.
- Articles 30 & 31: Exemption of registration fees for loans to small farmers and fishermen and an exemption of duties on potatoes for specialized funds.
These measures aim to reduce production costs and enhance the competitiveness of agricultural products in both local and international markets.
Sector Growth and Market Focus
CEPEX statistics show growth in the number of exporting companies. In regions 1, 2, and 3, 54 new exporting firms were added in 2025 compared to 2024, bringing the total to 4,672. In regions 4 and 5, 27 new companies began exporting, totaling 570 firms whose exports are directed to countries covered by Tunisia’s network of commercial offices abroad.
The European Union remains Tunisia’s primary trading partner, absorbing 70.3% of its exports, with notable growth in Italian and German markets.
Several state programs launched in 2025 aim to ease obstacles for companies. These include the “Easy Export“ project, designed to support SMEs, facilitate the promotion of small investors’ and artisans’ products abroad, and promote regional development by simplifying export-related procedures and services.
The “Team Tunisia Export” platform coordinates between the Ministry of Trade, the CEP, and diplomatic missions to provide logistical and advisory support to exporters and scientifically identify target markets.
Authorities are also working to simplify customs and administrative procedures to reduce shipping times, crucial for enhancing the competitiveness of perishable goods like fruits and vegetables.
Phosphates and derivatives, mechanical and electrical industries, and food products continue to rank among Tunisia’s most vital export sectors.
TunisianMonitorOnline (NejiMed)
